Disciples Women Archives - Christian Church in Oklahoma

Spirit Filled. Energy Filled. ODW Fall Retreat!

By Marilyn Bohlender, President

ODW Fall Retreat 2026 Oct. 2-3rd was held at Camp Christian, Choteau. Sixty attended on Fri/Sat with an additional ten on Saturday. At least a third were new to Camp Christian. Attendance from the SE Area, mainly from Sulfur and Ardmore, was the biggest boost. Rev. Sondra Ladd, Missionary Moment last year, brought a strong group of first-timers this year from Stillwater. In fact even though many traveled over 200 miles, by a show of hands they were ready to do it again. Many churches sent me their regards due to schedule conflicts.

Planning kept close to last year’s format with many different presenters to keep it fresh. Schedule adjustments in the morning allowed for an additional block of workshops including a session exclusively for our clergy women. Wendy Singleton, ODW Finance and Marilyn Bohlender, ODW President, presented a skit at Friday Dinner. Jenna Seeley, Joy for Jenna Ministries, gave us inspiration during the evening program. Pastor Tara Dew, FCC El Reno, explained the Labyrinth and led women by praying them into the Labyrinth. As we took turns walking the Labyrinth, those waiting inside sang songs in between scripture readings. Lastly, Marilyn led the women in a letting go ceremony that concluded at the firepit. Hot cocoa was provided by Wendy Singleton.

A 7am walk to Inspiration Point was led by Delois Guess, Pine Street CC. During breakfast, we filled our backpacks with “swag” from Phillips Seminary. We signed up for our Small Group Sessions and the list to buy cinnamon rolls. Cinnamon Rolls are a big draw at breakfast as is the bacon! Food is always good at Camp Christian. Rev. Maria Garza, ODW Hispanic Rep. and part of the planning team started her inspirational Bible Study while we ate breakfast.

Small Group Sessions

Rev. Christine Pomaville, FCC Thomas, facilitated the Clergy Women session. Other small group sessions were lead by Kathy Standridge, Sulphur, who shared her many mission ideas and Sally Wheeler, ODW VP of Reachout, spoke about activities for church women. Associate Regional Minister Rev. Shannon Cook told of her experience of Christ in her life, causing her to step out of her comfort zone to the position she now holds in ministry leadership in the Region.

An interesting spotlight before lunch was Rev. Donna Jackson, New Beginnings Christian Church, Tulsa, who spoke about her other job with the Greenwood Women’s Business Center. Anyone who has an idea may be helped in starting a business. Many of our women and clergy women need second jobs; many can earn money as their own boss.

Centerpieces & Cinnamon Rolls – 2 Great Fundraisers!

During lunch, we voted on table centerpieces each church group brought, which doubled as the service project. Bragging Rights went to 1st Place FCC El Reno, 2nd Place to FCC Sulphur and 3rd Place to FCC Stillwater! Just voting on centerpieces brought $202.10. Adding the auction of centerpieces brought the total donation to $777.10 for Camp Christian. Cinnamon Rolls from Camp Christian sales totaled $400. This year we did not auction Cinnamon Rolls but had Eric of Camp Christian provide 20 pre-cooked and frozen pans of six to sell for $20 each. Doing it this way saved time. The $20 price set by ODW because it is the least amount that a pan of cinnamon rolls has ever received in an auction.

Meaningful Afternoon Group Sessions

The four afternoon new small group sessions “Stages of Grief”, which was led by Aanika Gillet, Chaplain at OU Children’s Hospital. There was an impromptu meaningful discussion to start groups back home when the women returned. “Praying through the Camera Lens” was led by Rev. Beth Ann French, Tahlequah. What better setting to take pictures and add inspirational wording! As I entered the space for Jenna Seeley’s stretching and chair yoga, I cannot say enough for the relaxed feeling in this session with soft music, tea lights and Jenna’s soothing voice. Carolyn Spradlin, Chickasha, lead the arts and crafts with two projects to reflect the retreat’s theme and let the light of Christ shine through you!

At closing I talked to the women about Phillips Seminary, and it was also great to have Aanika Gillett verify the value of the 100% seminary scholarship for members of Disciples churches. Last but not least was Rev. Gina Jackson who led us through a meaningful communion service.

Anticipating 2027!

We finished at 3:15, ahead of the promised finish time of 3:30! With so many traveling across the state, it was important to have the daylight.

Camp Christian is reserved for Oct 1-2, 2027. We already have a theme and excitement for next year! As I put in my Board Report, “Cinnamon Rolls and Bacon here we come!”

Central Area Disciples Women October Meeting

In the meantime, our Disciples Women are busy! Central Area Disciples Women (CADW) has a meeting on Tuesday, October 27th at Norman. We are rested from Fall Retreat and excited for this meeting and its service for the non-profit, Food and Shelter, Inc. Note this group was a last minute change from listed agenda in the CADW booklet. See website for details.

2027 Roses Heads to Little Rock

ROSES June 25-26, 2027 has just released their Save-a-Date flyer! It is in Little Rock this time! Watch for more information; this is a big event last held in Texas in 2024.

2027 Just Women Bible Study

2027 Just Women is ready to order. Pre-order deadline of Dec 1st. Pre-order Here

We came back on fire from this wonderful Disciples Women Retreat!

CCOK3012026-10-20T10:50:24-05:00Oct 20, 2026|Disciples Women|0 Comments

It’s Too Hot in the Kitchen!

By

By Marilyn Bohlender, ODW President

Side note: We can get out of the kitchen at upcoming ODW Fall Retreat Oct 2-3rd. Yes! Good Food!

The church air conditioning at my church has not worked all summer! This has given new meaning to a hot kitchen. The situation would have stopped some volunteers. The numbers have dropped a lot for those coming in for a Wednesday community meal. Those still coming depend on that meal.

In this place where a meal is served you can feel God’s love. Do those attending also depend on that love? Most are used to the heat and rest at tables with fans going drinking water, tea, or lemonade while the meal is being completed. Someone can usually play the piano with soothing background music. Smells and happy chatter from the kitchen give comforting vibes. Smiles and greetings from volunteers make those toughened by life feel the Christian love.

How do you explain that our needs as a human go beyond just basic necessities. That need may be as simple as realizing someone knows I exist, listens to me and sees me. We may not even know that we need that until we experience someone caring and showing Christian love. I am not talking about solving all of someone’s problems which is another discussion on its own. I am just talking about acknowledging someone as a person.

I am also talking about how we may not know we need something until we experience it. How do you explain that meeting in person together as a church family fulfills a need beyond that of hearing the church service. Do not get me wrong. The church service even from home is uplifting and spiritual feeds just as the meal feeds empty stomachs. I am saying there is even more when you are in the midst of other Christians!

Our churches are full of Christian love! Let others feel this. Invite! Invite your neighbor; invite the stranger. Keep inviting!

As your ODW President, I want to invite you to participant as much as you are able in our activities. Experience the feeling that you may not know you are missing.

Upcoming:

ODW Fall Retreat 2026 on Oct 2-3rd. Registration deadline Sept 22nd
CADW Meeting Tues Oct 27th, FCC Norman 405-329-2192
DW Blessing Box Project: Your contribution results due end of October see our webpage for details
ROSES June 25-26, 2027 Little Rock Details forthcoming.
See Regional events on Region’s calendar

Stay in the loop by signing up to Oklahoma Region’s eNewsletter, Regional Roundup.

Go to the Oklahoma Disciples Women’s page here on this website.

Follow Oklahoma Disciples Women Facebook.

When I see you next, I will give tips to survive the heat in the kitchen and you can share yours! Tip number one is drink water!

John 4:14 (NIV) but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.

CCOK3012026-09-14T15:24:48-05:00Sep 14, 2026|Disciples Women|0 Comments

Time to Register for Retreat!

By Marilyn Bohlender, President

Registration is now open online for the ODW Fall Retreat 2026, taking place October 2-3rd at Camp Christian, Chouteau.

This year’s theme is “A New You! A Birthday Party!” based on 2 Corinthians 5:17 “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” See the event flyer here.

Deadline to register Tuesday, September 22. You will receive an email confirmation.

Thanks to many volunteers, including those in the program, registration costs remain the same as last year: These are low when you consider meals are included in registration.

Registration & Scholarships

Friday & Saturday: $75 • Saturday Only: $45 • Deadline Sept. 22nd

Register

The deadline for scholarships has been extended to Tuesday, September 8th. Applications can be completed online with your registration or if mailed to Marilyn Bohlender must be received by deadline. Download paper application here. Instructions on form. You will receive a confirmation. Let me, Marilyn Bohlender 580-483-5110, know if you do not receive a confirmation.

Schedule Overview

Friday: Sign-in is from 4-6:00pm, followed by dinner at 6:00pm

After a break for late comers to set up their bed, the evening program begins at 7:30pm.
We will hear from Jenna Seeley, Youth Ministry Director at FCC Moore.
Pastor Tara Dew will oversee the labyrinth walk. Firepit and cocoa will be available, conditions permitting.

Saturday: An optional walk to Inspiration Point begins at 7am (weather permitting).

Breakfast is at 8:00am, and the program begins during breakfast with Rev. Maria Garza.
There will be small group morning breakout sessions which are new from last year.
Later in the morning, we will hear from our new Associate Regional Minister, Rev. Shannon Cook.
Lunch is provided; bring cash for voting for centerpieces and auction.
The afternoon will feature additional breakout sessions different from morning ones.
Rev. Gina Jackson will oversee the Communion program.
The event will conclude by 3:30pm to allow for those traveling from all over Oklahoma. Part of our retreat organizers and some attendees come from SW Oklahoma, which is almost four hours to Lawton and even longer for Duncan. Retreat is worth it!

Special Details

Very Important!!! I cannot stress enough that you bring your own pillow, bedding and towels. Beds have mattresses with nothing on them. The bathrooms and showers are nice but there are only paper towel dispensers. Remember your linens!

Again this year! We welcome 11th and 12th grade young ladies to join us. There is a limit of three young ladies per adult leader or guardian and parent/guardian approval is required. Scholarships available too!

New for Clergy Women!

We encourage the clergy women at your church to attend. This year includes a dedicated 30-minute Saturday morning breakout session for our clergy women to network and share resources. Bring your favorite advice, idea or book to share. Clergy attending the full Friday/Saturday retreat can earn 2 CE points.

Dining Room Table Decorations

We voted with money for our favorites and raised money for Camp Christian. Bring cash! Last year Tahlequah won bragging rights!
We raised more for Camp Christian auctioning off these centerpieces! Bring cash! We are doing this again! We ask that churches bring a centerpiece following the theme of a birthday party. Can’t wait to celebrate being a new creation in Christ, Birthday Party Style!

Note: We are also in the planning stage with camp on having cinnamon rolls, jams and jellies available for purchase. Bring cash! Our long time connection with Camp Christian deserves our service project focus. Of course, we love these items!

Thank you!

We would like to thank the Oklahoma Region and staff for their assistance, Phillips Seminary for the giveaway swag, and the women who years ago established the LDEF scholarship fund through the Oklahoma Disciples Foundation.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Marilyn Bohlender ODW President at 580-483-5110.

Colossians 3:10 (NIV) and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.

CCOK3012026-08-17T14:57:01-05:00Aug 17, 2026|Disciples Women|Comments Off

Keep God’s Direction

By Marilyn Bohlender, ODW President

Once I heard that driving was like coloring, just stay inside the lines! We often approach life that way. We hear words like stay in your own lane. Keep in mind that words like this could shut down what might be a useful idea.

If we always stay inside the lines and never go outside the box, we might be missing out on God’s plan to use us to carry out his plan. Bottom line is keep an open mind to stay in tune to God’s direction even when it is outside the lines. Many women step outside their comfort zone to follow God’s direction. When you do, God will be there with you!

Be sure to keep updated with opportunities through Oklahoma Disciples Women Facebook and our Regional website page.

Proverbs 16:9 (NIV) In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.

CCOK3012026-07-08T09:38:33-05:00Jul 8, 2026|Disciples Women|Comments Off

Planning for ODW Fall Retreat

Planning Continues for ODW Retreat October 2-3, 2026

by Marilyn Bohlender, ODW President

“A New You! A Birthday Party!” is the ODW Retreat 2026 theme. This year’s ODW Retreat will explore how 2^nd Corinthians 5:17 is important in your life as a Christian. Our goal for this retreat is to become closer in spirituality to Christ and find a renewed sense of being Christian.

We will celebrate being Christian “Birthday Party” style as we ask churches attending to make dining table centerpieces following the birthday party theme. Centerpieces will be auctioned off as a service project to benefit Camp Christian.

Mark your calendar for October 2-3, 2026 for the ODW Retreat at Camp Christian, Chouteau, Oklahoma. Watch for registration and more information as planning continues for this retreat. As always, continue to keep this event in your prayers.

2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV) Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

CCOK3012026-06-08T14:55:15-05:00Jun 8, 2026|Disciples Women|Comments Off

A Ministry Reaps Big Benefits While Taking Only a Moment Each Day

By Marilyn Bohlender, ODW President

Disciples Women have a long history with a Blessing Box Ministry. We understand putting aside a little money each day will eventually add up to a larger amount. The Blessing Box Ministry works this way. In addition part of this ministry is to think of blessings in your life.

At the end of day, I think of a blessing and put money in my Blessing Box. That is a benefit for me to think about positive experiences as I put money in my Blessing Box. The money in the Blessing Box will add up and when other women are doing the same, we will end up with an even greater amount.

This year I propose a Blessing Box Project where after you collect and send your Blessing Box Donation in either on-line or by check, you will let me know the amount.

I plan to write in a future Regional Roundup that Oklahoma collected “x” amount and these churches were involved. It’s about what we did as a group together. October is the target date to let me know since that is the month of Disciples Women’s birthday.

For more information on Blessing Boxes and the Blessing Box Project 2026, go to ODW section of okdisciples.org. More information from Office of Disciples Women can be found on their website and eNewsletter DW Connect.

James 1:17 (NIV) Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

CCOK3012026-05-20T08:45:35-05:00May 19, 2026|Disciples Women|Comments Off

Behind the Scenes

by Marilyn Bohlender, DW President

Behind the scenes, someone answered God’s call. They answered whether or not they felt capable. They answered whether or not they thought someone else was more capable. They answered yes because God called on them. Many times throughout the Bible someone was called because God desired to see his works done through a person whose heart had faith.

Often in our lives just as it is in Biblical stories God will surround you with others to fulfill the mission. It is not a one and done scenario. When I look back, I see how often God has surrounded me with others to fulfill the job. We find we are better together.

As I look back to Regional Assembly in March, I see many who said yes to bringing this event together. We may only see those in charge. God sees everyone. He sees all the workers. He sees those who attended. He even sees those who prayed for the event. Each person was actually saying yes to God.

As you go through your daily walk of life, know you are saying yes to God’s call and direction on your life. Even praying while washing dishes is a yes to God’s call! Later this month I will be saying yes to attend CADW meeting at First Christian Church Moore, Tuesday April 28th. Go to ODW page for more info.

I am not obligated to say yes. I am not saying yes because it is easy; I will be driving over an hour each way. I feel God’s call to go. God’s hand will be seen in the nonprofit being highlighted at the meeting. Always, I am uplifted by the connections with other Christian women. Behind the scenes, this meeting started with someone saying yes.

Colossians 3:23 (NIV) Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.

CCOK3012026-04-15T10:03:44-05:00Apr 14, 2026|Disciples Women|Comments Off

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall: Change Your Perspective

By Marilyn Bohlender, ODW President

Each morning as I see myself in the mirror, I want to say, “Ugh! Oh no!” I tend to avoid the dreaded mirror.

Now consider this. What does God see when he looks at us? He sees us as perfect as the day he created us. Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” Psalm 139:13 says “For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb.”

We know that no one is perfect; we have sin. One way to look at our sin the way God does is to think of Jesus standing in the way of God seeing our sin. Jesus paid the price for our sin.

Once I heard a “Courtroom Story” that I will paraphrase. A man stood before the judge for murder. His lawyer steps forward and says, “I will pay the price for this man who sinned; this man who committed murder.” Judge says, “Are you sure?” The lawyer says, “Yes, Father; I am sure.”

When you look into your mirror, do not look for the flaws. Look as God sees you, the unique person that he created.

John 14:6 (NIV) Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

CCOK3012026-03-17T09:15:18-05:00Mar 17, 2026|Disciples Women|Comments Off

Pair Positive Energy with an Invitation

By Marilyn Bohlender, ODW President

How many times do you need to issue an invitation before you hear a yes? In retail sales, I heard it takes 10 times saying no before you hear the yes. Someone once said that it takes an average of 21 seeds of thought planted for a person to become a Christian.

Back to the invite scenario. I have heard a major portion of a sermon on just inviting. Sometimes we expect folks to just magically appear. A family came to church once because they were invited to the church across the street but the directions were mixed up and they ended up at our church instead!

How many of you went to church, an event or group meeting because someone invited you? Now it is your turn to invite. Recently, someone came because she said I kept inviting her! If you love your church, its activities and service projects, spread that love with positive energy! Pair that positive energy with an invitation!

To the “not me” folks, just know with prayer and God at your side that you can say words like, “I love the warm feeling I have when I walk into our sanctuary! Come feel that, too!” or “We had so much fun putting together snack bags; consider joining us next time!”

Today, I am inviting you to participate in Regional Assembly March 6th and 7th. Regional Assembly is for everyone not just the clergy. The organizers have made it a Friday – Saturday event that will be an Oklahoma Regional Assembly to remember! Because of all the generous sponsors, Friday evening dinner followed by a concert and Saturday only costs $35. If you can only make Friday or only Saturday, still come! ODW plans to have an Exhibitor Table so look for us. See you there! Here is the link to learn more and register.

Furthermore, invite others to attend the 7:30pm Friday night concert to have an enjoyable evening with Carrie Newcomer. There is a separate price/registration for those who are only attending her concert. Her concert is already covered for the rest of us under the $35 Fri/Sat cost.

We may never know how many invites are needed. We DO know the power of prayer and we can pray for God to use us to do the inviting.

Ephesians 3:20 (NLT) Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.

CCOK3012026-02-16T15:44:31-06:00Feb 16, 2026|Disciples Women|Comments Off

Reflect and Prepare for a New Year!

Are you prepared for a new year? We always celebrate that a new year has arrived. Then comes new year’s resolutions. Did you take a moment to sit back and reflect? I mean really take time to empty the mind of clutter and ready yourself of visions toward a positive new year.

Before this month is over, two of our women will travel to 2026 Disciples Women Leadership Conference (DWLC) to represent Oklahoma Disciples Women at a leadership event with other Disciples Women leaders from across United States and Canada. This event holds expectations for many positive insights.

At the end of January, CADW will hold their Winter Meeting on Tuesday, January 27th at Southern Hills CC, Edmond. Click here for details. This meeting always benefits a non-profit as well as the uplifting of those attending. I anticipate all the good works done by our Disciples Women across the Oklahoma Region.

This year there are already works for an even better Regional Assembly on March 6-7th, an event for all our Oklahoma Disciples. I was excited to hear our General Minister and President Rev. Terri Hold Owens will be at our assembly. What better way to prepare for hearing her than to read her book, Staying at the Table: Being the Church We Say We Are which can be ordered on Chalice Press.

I took advantage of the sunny days we have had this January to read her book and reflect on the emphasis she has on God’s love. Many books I read fade at the end but her book became better and more interesting in the chapters toward the end.

Take time to reflect all of God’s possibilities for us in this new year. Continue the good works you have been doing. Be ready for the paths where God leads you. Remember with faith, prayer and God’s help, anything is possible.

Psalm 20:4 (NIV) May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed.

CCOK3012026-01-15T16:11:47-06:00Jan 13, 2026|Disciples Women|Comments Off